RIYADH: Japan’s embassy held an iftar on Tuesday which included several Saudi Arabia citizens who had graduated from universities and other academic institutions in the Asian nation. In his speech, Fumio Iwai, ambassador in the Kingdom, said members of the alumni are helping to build bridges between Saudi Arabia and Japan. Regarding bilateral relations, Iwai referred to the leaders of the two countries embarking on mutual visits, which included Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visiting Riyadh last July. He said Japan’s private sector companies were keen on expanding their operations in Saudi Arabia. Last year there were 40 agreements signed in various business sectors and seven Japanese companies opened offices in the Kingdom. In terms of tourism, Iwai said Japan’s government has started issuing electronic visas for Saudi Arabia’s citizens and residents. In addition, multiple-entry visas are available for Saudi Arabia citizens who meet certain criteria. Iwai hoped for more cultural exchanges between the two nations that will record their 70th year of diplomatic relations on June 7. He referred to the success of the Japan Festival last November which was attended by 3,000 people. During the iftar, the participants exchanged views on ways to develop the alumni network.